A linear theory (quantum theory)?

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xylai
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Some textbooks say that quantum mechanics is a linear theory. I don't know why?
How can we decide a theory is a linear theory?
Thank you!
 

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The governing equation (the Schrödinger Equation) is a linear differential equation. One consequence of linearity is that if [itex]\psi_1[/itex] and [itex]\psi_2[/itex] are both solutions, then so is [itex]\psi_1 + \psi_2[/itex].
 

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